The most difficult window so far has more than arguably been Newcastle’s, with them losing out on their first-choice attacking target, their first-choice new goalkeeper, and potentially losing their star player. Things may now be looking likely to turn around as the Magpies are determined to sign a new defender. However, Newcastle United will need a hefty bid to land Malick Thiaw from AC Milan.
Newcastle United Suffer Another Blow With Hefty Bid Required for Star
Proposal Out of Market Value Or No Sale
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Newcastle have made a “new direct approach” to Milan and Thiaw’s representatives regarding a move, with the season starting in just over a week. Despite a large amount of noise surrounding the Geordies being about their striker issues, the club appear to be concerned with a new centre-back. There have also been reports of varying reliability about them going back in for Marc Guehi.
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However, Milan do not want to sell. Manager Max Allegri wants to keep his star centre-back. They are reportedly “clear” with their demands: a proposal “out of market value” must be submitted, or Thiaw stays in Italy. To overpay due to the seller’s demands would not please fans after a difficult summer already, though it may be a likely option with only one permanent first-team signing made so far.
Signing Malick Thiaw Fixes A Big Problem
With the biggest story at St James’ being Alexander Isak potentially leaving, critics may question why Newcastle are focusing on a centre-back. They have already lost out on Hugo Ekitike, and losing the Swede would leave them with William Osula as the only centre-forward. They arguably need two new strikers (though Isak’s departure is not yet certain).
Despite this issue, centre-back is also a problem. Sven Botman is an excellent player, though his three main back-ups are all over 30. They could struggle in a season playing Champions League football again with fitness and injuries. Furthermore, the Dutch defender is injury-prone himself.
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Eddie Howe needs a new centre-back, not only for depth, but as a starter to pair Botman in Europe with strong recovery pace. If Botman suffers another injury, it is crucial that Howe has at least one top-class central defender at his disposal.